Every cyclist dreads the sudden hiss of a deflating tire.

Whether commuting to work, running errands, or enjoying a leisurely ride through the city, a flat tire can quickly “deflate” your plans.

But, with some knowledge and the right tools, you can turn this frustrating experience into a minor hiccup.

This guide will walk you through the essential steps to fix a flat tire. You should feel more confident and prepared to tackle a flat by the end.

Initial Steps When You Get a Flat

When you notice your tire is flat, the first order of business is safety.

Find a safe spot to pull over—preferably a flat area away from traffic where you can work without distractions.

If you’re in a busy area, move your bike to a sidewalk or another pedestrian area out of the way.

Secure Your Bike: To avoid damaging the derailleur, lay your bike down on a flat surface on the non-chain side.

Prepare Your Workspace: If you carry a small mat or cloth, lay it out to organize your tools and keep small parts from getting lost.

Assess the Damage: Take a quick look at the tire to identify if the flat is due to a puncture, a tear, or maybe just a slow leak that’s worsened. This will guide your repair strategy.

ALSO READ: How Firm Should Bike Tires Feel? 3-Step Test without a Gauge

Essential Tools for Fixing a Flat

Before you find yourself stranded with a flat tire, it’s crucial to pack a small repair kit that fits easily in your bike bag or backpack. Here’s what you should carry:

Tire Levers: These small but mighty tools are your first line of defense against a flat tire. They help you pry the tire away from the rim to remove the tube. Most sets come with two or three levers.

Spare Tube or Patch Kit: Depending on the severity of the puncture, you might need to replace the tube entirely or simply patch it. Carrying a spare tube is often faster and more reliable, but a patch kit can be a lifesaver if you run out of spares.

Bike Pump or CO2 Inflator: A portable bike pump is a must-have to re-inflate your tire after a repair. Alternatively, a CO2 inflator can make the job quicker, though it’s a single-use solution and requires you to carry extra cartridges.

Multi-Tool: This isn’t just for fixing flats but is essential for making minor adjustments on your bike. Ensure it includes Allen keys and a wrench that fit your bike’s bolts.

Removing and Replacing the Tire

When you have a flat, the repair starts with removing the wheel and the tire itself. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:

Remove the Wheel: If your bike has rim brakes, disengage them first. Most rim brakes have a simple lever mechanism that allows for quick release.

Extract the Tire and Tube: Start by completely deflating the tube to make removing it easier. If there’s any air left, press down on the valve to release it.

Install the New Tube or Patch the Old One: If using a new tube, slightly inflate it to give it shape. This makes it easier to fit inside the tire and decreases the risk of pinching it when you put the tire back on.

Reinflate and Reinstall the Wheel: Once the tire is back on, inflate it to the recommended pressure using your pump or CO2 inflator. Reattach the wheel to your bike. Make sure the brakes (if you have rim brakes) and the wheel are properly aligned and secured.

Here’s a Helpful Video to Watch:

Quick Fixes Without Tools

Sometimes, you might find yourself with a flat tire but without the full suite of tools. Here are a few tips for managing such situations:

Tire Plugs: For small punctures, tire plugs can seal the hole temporarily. These are especially handy if you have a tubeless setup. Simply insert the plug into the puncture and inflate the tire.

Temporary Patch Kits: Some cyclists carry emergency adhesive patches that can quickly patch small holes in the tube. These aren’t as durable as traditional patches, but they can get you home.

Using a Dollar Bill or Wrapper: A well-known trick among seasoned cyclists is to use a folded dollar bill or a candy bar wrapper as a barrier between the tube and the tire. This can temporarily cover holes or tears in the tire casing, preventing further damage to the tube.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Flats

Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the frequency of flat tires:

Regular Inspections: Before and after rides, check your tires for wear and tear, sharp objects, and adequate tire pressure. Keeping tires properly inflated reduces the risk of flats caused by pinching the tube between the tire and the rim.

Use Puncture-Resistant Tires: Investing in puncture-resistant tires or adding a tire liner can offer a robust barrier against the debris and sharp objects commonly found in urban environments.

Choose the Right Tires for Your Environment: If you frequently ride in areas with thorns or glass, consider thicker, more durable tires. For smoother urban paths, lighter tires might be more efficient.

Carry a Repair Kit: Always have a basic repair kit with you, which should include at least a spare tube, patch kit, tire levers, and a pump or CO2 inflator.

By adopting these preventive measures, you can enjoy more uninterrupted rides and spend less time dealing with flats.

ALSO READ: 8 Things Every Cyclist Should Have in Their EDC (Everyday Carry)

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In recent years, cycling to work has transformed from a niche activity into a growing trend among urban dwellers seeking healthier, more sustainable lifestyles.

There’s something that just feels different when you cycle to work versus arriving by car. I noticed a little extra pep in my step on days that I used my bike to go into the office.

It turns out there are plenty of scientific data and insight backing this up. I wanted to dig a little deeper and find more interesting information about commuting by bicycle to work that might encourage others to do the same.

Fact 1: Fantastic Health Benefits

Cycling isn’t just good for your physical fitness; it’s a lifesaver.

Studies have consistently shown that cycling to work significantly reduces the risk of developing serious illnesses such as heart disease and cancer.

For instance, a study published in the BMJ found that cyclists have a 46% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 45% lower risk of cancer compared to those who commute by car or public transport.

Cycling is literally good for your heart.

Fact 2: Boosts Productivity

I mentioned this earlier. Imagine starting your day with a burst of energy and a clear mind.

Cycling has been proven to boost workplace productivity.

Employees who ride bikes to work report higher energy levels throughout the day and take fewer sick days, translating to nearly €5 billion in annual savings for employers across the EU.

Fact 3: Environmental Impact

Choosing your bike over your car can help significantly reduce urban air pollution.

Cycling produces over ten times less CO2 per kilometer than cars, making it a highly effective personal action against climate change.

Who doesn’t want to help save our planet?

ALSO READ: Does Cycling to Work Get Easier Over Time? 9 Tips for a Comfy Commute

Fact 4: Cost-Effectiveness

In these pressing times, the economic benefits of cycling are truly undeniable.

By switching to a bike, you can save on hefty fuel costs, car maintenance, and public transport fares, not to mention the potential reduction in personal medical expenses due to improved health.

That’s more money in your pocket.

Fact 5: Increasing Popularity

Cities worldwide are witnessing a surge in cycling popularity, with increased investments in bike lanes and cycling infrastructure.

This growing trend is supported by statistics highlighting a rising number of people choosing bikes over cars for their daily commute.

It’s a bit of a chicken/egg situation. Which comes first? The cyclists or the bike lanes? I believe a bit of both. The more people that are cycling the higher the need for proper infrastructure. Good infrastructure will encourage even more cyclists.

Fact 6: Enhanced Mental Wellbeing

This is one of cycling’s best benefits. It’s good for both the body and the mind.

Regular cyclists enjoy better overall mental health, exhibiting lower stress and anxiety levels.

This form of exercise helps release endorphins, enhancing mood and decreasing feelings of depression.

ALSO READ: 7 Trailblazing Employers that Reward Cycling to Work

Fact 7: Community and Connectivity

Since COVID-19 in 2020, it’s not been easy to move outside our so-called “bubbles of safety”. As an adult, I find making friends much more difficult than my younger days.

Cycling to work increases your chances of engaging with the community and participating in local events.

It’s a social activity that can connect you with fellow cyclists and nature, enriching your daily commute.

Fact 8: Low Impact on Joints

Did you know that unlike jogging or playing certain sports, cycling is gentle on your joints?

This makes it an ideal exercise for people of all ages and fitness levels, helping to maintain mobility and fitness without the risk of injury.

You don’t have to be a super-fit cyclist to cycle to work. You are setting the pace.

Fact 9: Time Efficiency

In urban areas, cycling is often faster than driving due to reduced traffic congestion.

Cyclists can take shortcuts and use dedicated bike lanes, avoiding the stress and time lost sitting in traffic jams.

Just wave at the cars as you cycle past.

ALSO READ: Bike Commuting Statistics: 74 Cycling to Work Stats for 2024

Fact 10: Accessibility and Ease

Starting to cycle is easier than you might think.

With minimal initial investment and some practice, commuting by bike can quickly become a pleasant part of your routine.

Tips for beginners are readily available, making it accessible for everyone interested in trying it out.

The benefits of cycling to work are vast and varied. From boosting your health and productivity to saving you money and protecting the environment, cycling to work can make a significant difference in your life and in our world.

Why not give it a try? Even cycling just once a week can make a difference.

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Cycling in the city has both its joys and challenges.

Zipping through the streets on your bike is one of the best feelings in the world, but it also presents many obstacles that might make your rides less fun.

Traffic and bike theft can become such hurdles for urban cyclists that they even deter some riders from taking their bikes for a ride.

To be able to navigate your way around town, you need to be savvy enough to know what to avoid and how to keep safe.

Let’s explore five common urban cycling challenges and provide practical tips to overcome them.

1. Navigating Through Heavy Traffic

This can be scary at first. City streets can be daunting for cyclists, especially during rush hour.

The key to navigating urban traffic safely is visibility and awareness.

Wearing bright, reflective clothing and installing lights and reflectors on your bike can make a significant difference.

Always stay alert, monitor traffic signals and road signs, and use designated bike lanes whenever possible.

Communication is also crucial; make sure to signal your intentions to drivers and pedestrians clearly using hand signals.

By taking these precautions, you can make your journey through busy streets smoother and safer.

2. Dealing with Theft

One of the worst and most common concerns is bike theft.

But there are effective ways to protect your bike.

Investing in a high-quality U-lock, possibly combined with a cable lock, can deter thieves.

Always lock your bike in busy, well-lit areas, ideally where there’s plenty of foot traffic or under surveillance cameras. But be warned that thieves are becoming more brazen every day, and this shouldn’t be your only security measure.

Registering your bike with a local database can also aid in its recovery if stolen, and considering bike insurance might provide an extra layer of security for more expensive models.

ALSO READ THIS: How to Prevent Bike Theft: 17 Priceless Bicycle Security Tips

3. Limited Storage Space

For cyclists in the city, space is often at a premium.

If you’re short on storage space, innovative solutions like vertical racks or ceiling hoists can be a lifesaver, allowing you to store your bike vertically or above.

Community bike storage options or shared spaces within apartment buildings are also worth exploring.

A folding bike might be the perfect answer for those with very limited space. It offers the performance you need with the convenience of easy storage.

ALSO READ THIS: 5 Ingenious Bicycle Storage Solutions for Small Apartments

4. Bad Weather Conditions

Cycling through rain, snow, or sweltering heat presents its own set of challenges.

To stay dry and comfortable, equip yourself with appropriate weather gear, such as waterproof clothing and mudguards.

Regular bike maintenance, like cleaning and lubricating your chain, becomes even more critical in harsh weather conditions to prevent rust and wear.

Enhanced visibility with extra lights and reflective gear is crucial for those foggy or rainy days.

ALSO READ THIS: 7 Secrets to CONQUERING Wet Weather Bike Rides

5. Maintaining Your Bike

If you frequently use your bike in the city, you will need regular maintenance to perform at its best.

Make sure you do routine checks for signs of wear, especially on brakes and tires.

Learning basic maintenance skills like changing a tire or adjusting brakes can save you time and money.

For more complex issues, use professional services from local bike shops for regular tune-ups.

Ultimately, navigating the urban jungle on your trusty steed can be rewarding and challenging.

But if you’re prepared, you can overcome almost every obstacle. Rather than fretting over these challenges, see them as part of your urban adventure.

The benefits of cycling far outweigh the obstacles you might encounter along the way.

ALSO READ THIS: 6 Cycling Health Benefits (Backed by Scientific Research)

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Bikes come in all different shapes and sizes, and some incredible designs over the years make you question whether a bike is just a mode of transport or a form of art.

We think they can be both, so we’ve put together a list of eight beautiful bikes we’re obsessed with right now, including past and present bicycles that we think are really something.

1. Cannondale SuperSix EVO Cannondale + Rapha + Palace Hi-MOD Special Edition Road Frameset

I know this is just a frameset, okay, but hear me out on this one.

The beautiful bike occurred when Cannondale teamed up with the iconic skateboard and streetwear brand Palace to add their flare to the SuperSix Evo frameset, the outcome is something that should be hung up in the Louvre, no doubt.

Absolutely no one can tell me this isn’t beautiful. Maybe not to everyone’s taste, but just such an iconic frameset and so visually striking

You may also recognize this frame, and that’s because this design was used by the men’s professional road cycling team, EF Education – EasyPost, at the Tour de France in 2023.

A real treat for the eyes.

2. Lotus 108 Track Bike

It’s not a bike that can be bought on the market but another iconic bike, this time from 1992, with only four being made.

This amazing track bike was made by the British car company Lotus and was ridden to victory by Brit Chris Boardman in the 4000m Individual Pursuit at the 1992 Barcelona Summer Olympics.

Aesthetically, this bike is so futuristic-looking that even in 2024, it could be a prototype not yet in production.

It’s a real two-wheeled spaceship.

3. VanMoof S5 E-Bike

It is a beautifully simplistic electric bike that for sure deserves a spot on our list.

If you live in a busy city, you’ve likely seen one of these zooming around your local streets. They are very popular indeed, and their look is definitely a big reason for this.

The motor is discreet, so there’s no ugly bulkiness from the electric side of things, which, of course, only adds to the beauty of this bike.

Although it’s available in only two muted colors, gray and dark gray, this e-bike really is a minimalist’s dream: a bike whose looks and color will not clash with whatever fabulous outfit you’re wearing.

ALSO READ: Is VanMoof Coming Back? New Owner Plans Revealed

4. Specialized Hotwalk Carbon Balance Bike

Okay, I know what you are thinking, and no, it isn’t for adults, but a balance bike for children and toddlers who are learning to balance pre-pedals.

In my opinion, this just had to be added because of its amazing design, which is largely due to the carbon fiber it’s made from, allowing the frame to be made from one mold, creating a streamlined, minimalist dream

Now, for a child’s balance bike, it is pricey, but look how beautiful it is, it would even look super cool hung up on a wall as art.

Just imagine your child zooming around on it outside and then hanging it above the fireplace when they get back. It’s iconic.

5. CARBO Folding E-Bike MODEL X

Perhaps you didn’t think that a folding bike, let alone an electric folding bike, would be on this list, but think again.  The Carbo is impressively simplistic and stylish.

As you may know, folding bikes tend to look a little clumsy and messy due to the nature of the frame, but not this one. The design is sleek and all-black, stealth mode activated.

Likewise, it is electric, but from just one glance, you wouldn’t know because the motor is small and tucked away, adding to the simplistic yet striking look.

6. Specialized Sirrus 6.0 Hybrid Bike

Just one look will tell you why this hybrid has made this list. I mean, just look at it.

This futurist bike is truly iconic, the perfect response to anyone who thinks hybrids are boring. With the interesting frame design, it would not look out of place in the Tate Modern

Made from carbon fiber and designed for everyday use, this leisure bike will undoubtedly turn heads when being ridden to work or out in the country lanes

7. Calfee Design Bamboo Mountain Bike

Okay, now, I know what some of you may say. You may personally think this is a little odd and maybe not the most aesthetically pleasing bike you’ve ever seen, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder…

And given the ever-growing concern for the environment, more sustainable options for materials are amazing. Hence, a bike made from bamboo is a beautiful thing: a gift from Mother Nature if you were.

What I personally love about this bike is the natural vibe. Because the frame is literally made of bamboo, you can’t really get more natural than that.

Now that is beautiful, a really unique bike that helps make the world greener and more sustainable.

8. Pinarello GREVIL F9 – SHIMANO GRX DI2 Gravel Bike

You didn’t think we could have a most beautiful list and not include a Pinarello, right?

Of course, the last bike we have is their F9 carbon fiber gravel bike, which is Chef’s Kiss, a really stunning piece of engineering brilliance from Italy.

I’ve honestly never seen one of their bikes that didn’t look like it had been lovingly crafted rather than just drawn up and rushed into production; they really are made and designed with passion and love, and my, does it show.

What really sets this bike apart from others is the angles of the frameset, from the forks to the sloping top tube angles and rear stays; it really is just a beautiful bike.

Did we miss any good ones on our list? Let us know what bikes you think are the most beautiful.

Bikes, as great as they are, don’t have to be boring. Hopefully, our list includes a wide range of stunning bikes that you can admire and, who knows, maybe even purchase.

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Although the world of bikes is still very male-dominated in terms of products available on the market, there are some great women-specific items and hacks out there to improve comfort when riding a bike for women.

These women-specific cycling products and hacks are not just for lycra-clad women who want to ride fast on skinny tires.

Thankfully, there’s a great way to ensure maximum comfort regardless of what bike you ride or why you choose pedal power. 

These tips often won’t break the bank either! 

1. Consider a Bike Fit 

Okay, I know we just said it won’t break the bank, and this one may be expensive, but it could be completely life-altering. 

Therefore, the cost is very much worth it.

Bike fitting is available all over the world and is also available for all styles of bikes.

Essentially, a professional bike fitter will fit you to your bike and adjust it to fit you and your specific needs after a consultation covering your flexibility and issues you may have.

A bike fit will also make you more efficient at pedaling and getting more out of your current bike.

Another great aspect of a bike fit commonly complained about by women is the saddle fitting.

Bike fits often advise on a saddle that suits your body and needs.

2. Comfy Saddle 

The last point brings us to our next top tip: finding a saddle that you find comfy.

What others find comfortable doesn’t necessarily matter, as women’s bodies differ greatly. Therefore, it is very important to test different saddles out. 

But a comfy saddle that suits you will make a whole world of difference. 

No one likes to be numb or sore in the nether regions, especially while riding a bike!

But you don’t have to, and many saddle companies and bike shops will let you test saddles and offer saddle fitting services.

Therefore, there’s no excuse; you don’t have to suffer in silence. Everyone in the cycling industry knows how common saddle issues are, so you can rest assured that your issues will be handled carefully and taken seriously. 

3. Comfy Padded Shorts That Suit You 

Moving swiftly on to another cracking piece of advice that your bottom will be very grateful for is finding a comfy pair of padded cycling shorts that suit you.

Online bike retailers can be a great place to start, but going into a local bike shop is also a good way to get a feel for the materials and see the padding, also referred to as a chamois, so that you can see the thickness and thus which brand may suit you.

All brands differ in terms of the padding they offer, both in thickness and pattern, so it’s recommended to look within the shorts to see if they are thick enough for your needs. 

Once again, it’s important to reinforce that women are all built differently, making padded cycling short selection, just like saddle choice, incredibly specific to the individual. 

Couple your chosen pair of padded cycling shorts with a comfy saddle, and numbness and bottom pain will be a thing of the past.

4. Padded Gloves

Now for potentially our lowest cost tip: padded gloves.

Many women notice pain in the palms of their hands when riding a bike, which is why padded gloves are another great tip for ensuring maximum comfort. 

Padded gloves can come in a range of sizes and designs. Some are women-specific, and others are unisex; as long as they fit, the gender specification doesn’t matter.

Some are short-fingered (often called mitts), which are great for warmer climates, and there are also long-fingered gloves, which are more suited to cooler climates.

The padding in these gloves has been explicitly positioned to reduce numbness and provide a cushion for the palms of your hands.

This padding is great at reducing the impact of vibrations from the road that occur when riding along.

Not to mention that padded gloves also provide warmth, which can help maximize comfort.

5. The Right Sports Bra

Okay, this one may seem uncommon, but sports bras may be one of the most overlooked comfort aspects of women’s cycling or any sport.

Finding a sports bra that fits you correctly and gives you the support you need for your chosen activity will make a difference in comfort. 

This is true for both women on either end of the spectrum in terms of breast size. 

Sports bras are often too restrictive, negatively impacting breathing or not offering the right support.

Therefore, finding the right sports bra to suit you and your needs can be life-altering when it comes to maximizing comfort. 

Many sports bra brands now come with size charts that match up with standard bra sizing; therefore, getting measured properly and matching that to your sizing and support needs should ensure you find the sports bra you need.

Women shouldn’t experience pain or discomfort when doing something as joyous as riding a bike. 

Small changes can result in some really drastic changes. 

Therefore, these five tips for maximum comfort will help you be pain-free when out on two wheels, no matter your riding style.

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Countless women worldwide who ride bikes are probably used to hearing certain annoying comments about their bike and/or cycling knowledge.

You know the type of comments: mansplaining about how to do simple mechanics or unsolicited advice that was not wanted.

They may initially seem comical, but they can become annoying and infuriating after a while.

Well, enough is enough, we say.

If you are someone who does this, STOP.

If you are someone who encounters this rubbish, then we are sure you can relate to our list of the top 6 Things Female Cyclists Are Tired of Hearing.

Please let us know if we have missed anything and how you deal with this nonsense! 

1. ‘You Need to Put Your Saddle Up / Down’

Wow, I didn’t realize that you were a bike-fitting professional.

Stop telling women how they should have their saddle and what height it should be. Unless they are asking for advice, this information is not wanted.

If women had an issue, they would vocalize it and ask for your opinion or go to a professional bike fitter to get advice from someone qualified to do so.

So, if you have not been asked, don’t say. Women don’t need more mansplaining in society. Kindness, sure. But condescending remarks on how women should use their own possessions are boring. 

Imagine someone told you every day that your glasses didn’t suit your face, even though you love those glasses, and picked them out yourself. You would be annoyed and fed up with the comments because it’s no one’s business. 

Much like women’s preferred saddle height isn’t yours. Simple. 

2. ‘You Need a Different Size Bike’

Another super annoying remark that is seldom asked for.

Let’s spell this one out real clear: unless a woman has remarked that she is really uncomfortable on a bike, leave her be.

Sure, maybe the bike is the wrong size to you, but if she is comfortable and can ride it, then there isn’t any issue.

Women are more than capable of researching bike sizing advice or asking industry professionals for advice if they need it. 

So, if you haven’t been asked, don’t say.

Once again, no one wants your unsolicited advice. 

3. ‘You’re Fast, For a Woman’

Ouch.

It is potentially one of the most condescending comments female cyclists hear.

It’s not the compliment you may feel it is. 

Telling a woman that she’s fast despite her biological sex is incredibly rude. What does it matter? 

Women can ride their bikes at their own pace, and being fast or not isn’t something anyone needs to validate. 

So leave them be. 

Let women ride at their own pace and enjoy riding their bikes. 

Grown women can decide the speed they want to ride at, and if they want to know the speed, they can check their bike computer, which is far more accurate than you.

If not, leave her alone. K. Thanks. Bye.

4. ‘You should change gear’

Another classic piece of unsolicited advice that women often complain of hearing.

Once again, it’s up to the individual what gear they prefer riding in.

Whoever you are, if you are comfortable and enjoying yourself, that’s all that matters.

Even if someone is spinning a lot or sloughing, they should research or seek advice if they feel they need it.

So if they haven’t asked, don’t say it.

5. Anything Surrounding Body Type

Oh, sorry, I didn’t realize women have to look a certain way in the world of patriarchy to enjoy riding a bike!? 

Any comment on body composition, build, height, weight loss, weight gain: women are tired of it. Don’t say it; don’t comment on women’s muscular legs or how slim they may be. 

Women’s bodies, their choice. It’s nothing to do with anyone. Let women enjoy riding their bikes and being happy without people commenting on their aesthetics and body composition. 

It’s none of your business.

6. ‘You Can’t Wear That While Riding Your Bike’

Errr… Yes, they can.

Whatever anyone chooses to wear—lycra, a suit, waterproofs, a skirt—it’s all cycling kit.

Women should wear what they want and in what they feel comfortable. 

Once again, it’s not your business and not your issue. So leave them to look fabulous and feel great while doing what they love and getting from A to B. 

Expressing individual style and feelings through what women wear is their decision. 

Not yours.

This isn’t PE class at school, and there’s no set uniform. This is the real world, so mind your own business. 

Honestly, people need to mind their own business.

What you can do to avoid being that person is only give advice when asked.

DO NOT comment on people’s bodies.

Be kind and help promote the great activity that is cycling!

Making comments like these can put women off cycling, and that’s really not okay.

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From downright no-nos to social faux pas, these are the things to avoid when riding a bike to work.

But aren’t you just putting people off riding a bike to work? Yeah, yeah, we hear you. This isn’t about putting newbie commuters down. Far from it, in fact. This is just sage advice from someone who spent a good few years commuting by bike, in all weathers, at all times of the year, and during almost every hour of the day. We made these mistakes, so you don’t have to.

It’s funny, those bike commuters who are already out there pedaling the streets, will probably understand at least some of the mistakes in this list. But there are perhaps one or two they may disagree with – let’s see, shall we?

1. Trusting the Weather Forecast

Here’s what seasoned bike commuters never tell you… it rains, it’s cold, it’s windy – more often than you damn well know. And even more frustratingly the weather forecast can (AND WILL) be wrong. Don’t trust it, never trust it – in fact, maybe don’t even bother looking at it in the first place!

Okay, okay, okay it might be wise to have a glance at it to get a rough idea, but don’t be surprised if wall-to-wall sunshine quickly evaporates into a torrential downpour.

But here’s our key takeaway on this one, people of the internet. Modern life is great in many ways (precisely 1 billion things to watch on Netflix and 1 million takeaway options delivered to your door), but has made us less attuned to the world around us. Getting outside, even as the rain lashes at your every orifice is great for mind, body, and soul. Just be kind to your body and pack a jacket!

2. Choosing to Ride Without Fenders

Hunkered down in a car, squirreled away on a bus – no other commuter feels the effects of the weather as much as a bike commuter. So do yourself a favor, bike commuters worldwide – FIT FENDERS TO YOUR BICYCLE. Oh, and P.S. Don’t take them off in summer, will you?

3. Leaving the House Without Some EDC

Listen up, kids. EDC is “everyday carry,” and that means, you carry it EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. The bike commuter’s version of EDC looks a little like this: spare inner tube, pump, inner tube patches, multitool, spare lights. 

4. Riding with a Backpack

This could be controversial. Riding with a backpack is uncomfortable, sweat-inducing, and generally not fun at all. Amateur bike commuters worldwide, please buy yourself a pair of pannier bags or, at the very least, a handlebar bag, basket, or frame bag.

5. Looking Like a Bike Ninja

Have you seen these bike ninjas? We have. Sloshing down a busy road in the twilight, only illuminated by the beam of lights from cars, passing a mere sliver away from their handlebars.

New bike commuters should never ride in all black but always ride with a set of bike lights suitable for the environment they’re riding in.

As a further piece of general advice, even when commuting by bike during the day, a touch of reflectivity or a dash of high visibility can go some way to improving your whereabouts to other road users.

6. Taking the Most Direct Route

Thinks about riding to work. Automatically chooses to ride the very road you’ve been driving for the last five years.

Just because the distance between A and B is the quickest by car definitely does not mean it’s the best route to take by bike. While we’re not suggesting going via Aunty Irene’s house, taking the quiet route through the park and down past the warehouses just for the sake of it. A zig-zag route may well be friendlier for you and your bike.

Fewer cars blasting by at precisely one thousand miles an hour. Fewer stop lights to waste your time at. And, heaven’s alive, maybe even a dedicated bike line to roll on with glee.

Heed this piece of advice, cycle commuters, and you’ll stick at it for much, much longer.

7. Rush, Rush, Rush

Let’s face it, when all is said and done, commuting by bike should be enjoyable and it won’t be if you leave late and have to ride fast to be on time.

Ease back. Settle in. Ride easy. Pedaling to work shouldn’t be about winning the Tour de France; it’s about getting some gentle exercise and freeing your mind. You never know, it might stop you shouting at Jackie from accounts when she asks you about Invoice 223 for precisely the four hundredth time. 

8. Not Taking a Chill Pill

On a related note, it’s easy – very easy in fact – to be riled up when riding to work. Maybe it’s the bus that always cuts you up or the stop light that always brings you to a halt. First-time cycle commuters should always take a chill pill before lowering themselves into the saddle.

9. Sticking to the Bike Lanes

Yes, you read that right. Don’t stick to the bike lanes. For every well-designed, well-signposted, and segregated from traffic bike lane out there, there are maybe two poorly thought-out, downright dangerous ‘bike lanes’. As such, it’s our opinion that cyclists should never ride in the bike lane just because it’s there.

10. Having to Go Barefoot

“Tom, why haven’t you got shoes on?” “Well, Simon – I rode my bicycle to work and forgot to put my shoes in my bag.” ‘Nuff said.

11. Not Fuelling ‘The Engine’

Start commuting by bike – even short distances – and you’ll soon generate the appetite of a 14,000-pound African Elephant. Eat, eat, eat, and then eat again. Or else, new commuter cyclist, you might never find your way home again!

12. Waiving the Need For a Shower

Mmm. Yes. A generally sweaty aroma. Even a leisurely pedal to work can, for some people, work up a sweat. Do everyone a favor, bike commuters – please? Take a shower once you arrive! If there is one, of course.

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Lots of people say e-bikes burn people’s houses down.

Yes, this has happened, but equally, some people win the lottery, and some get struck by lightning. It doesn’t mean necessarily mean it’s likely to happen.

Therefore, in this article, we want to analyze the real risk of it happening to you, what the actual odds are, and what you can do to minimize the chance of it happening. 

Are e-bike fires a real risk or just the media pedaling fear?

What Is An E-Bike Fire?

Let’s dive in and briefly explain why electric bike fires happen in the first place.

Electric bike fires are really bad news because the cause is a reaction called “Thermal Runaway.” This technical term means that one messed up cell in the lithium-ion battery starts a fire and then spreads to other cells. Since there are lots of cells in these batteries, the fire is made up of many smaller ‘fires’, which causes the overall blaze to be highly unpredictable.

But it gets worse. During an e-bike fire, dangerous stuff like hydrofluoric acid is also released. To ‘fuel to the fire’, the oxygen released during the fire makes it even harder to put out. It’s definitely not something you want to mess with.

This means that should (and that’s a big SHOULD) an electric bike fire break out, it can cause considerable damage.

How Likely Are E-Bike Fires?

So, yes, we all should be paying attention when it comes to discussing and preventing e-bike fires.

But is there a bigger risk of an e-bike fire happening than any other kind of fire? Using data from the London Fire Brigade, let’s decide. In 2023, the crews had to deal with e-bike fires once every two days, which equates to around 180 fires in total during the year. 

London firefighters attended over 16,000 fires in the capital during the year, meaning that e-bike fires accounted for just over 1% of the total. As the crew says themselves, cooking and smoking continue to be the most common cause of fires.

Right, so far, we’ve established that e-bike fires can be terrible and that the likelihood of electric bike fires is marginal compared to other household fires. Now for the most important question, ‘Will it happen to your electric bike?’

We did some quick math, and by our sums, there’s a 1 in 15,000 chance that your electric bike might catch fire. We got this estimate by looking at how many e-bikes are owned in the UK and the 200+ fires that were caused by them in 2022. If you base the rest of your thinking on that, then electric bikes are no more dangerous than any other gadget that runs on lithium-ion batteries.

And just to back up our claims, one bike insurance firm claims e-bike fires are not that common to have any significant effect on their claims.

How does a 1 in 15,000 chance of an electric bike catching fire compare to other drastic events like being struck by lightning or winning the lottery? Funnily enough, the chance of your electric bike bursting into flames is nearly the same as being struck by lightning. Data suggests that, in the US, your chances of being struck by a bolt from above is 1 in 15,300!

And what about the lottery? Unfortunately, you’re far likelier to be struck by lightning or experience an e-bike fire than win the lottery jackpot. Chances of winning the big bucks range depending on which lottery you play, but most players are deemed to have a 1-in-a-million (at least) chance of winning. And yet, we still keep playing, don’t we?!

Five Ways to Avoid E-Bike Fires

So, as our electric bike fire statistics have shown, not all electric bikes will combust before your eyes! But what steps can you take to ensure this doesn’t happen to you? Here are five simple things you can do.

1. Make Sure It’s Safety Accredited

Only buy an e-bike, battery, and charger that is safety accredited. If you’re a cyclist in the US, your electric bike has got to meet the UL2849 battery standard. And over in Europe, they’ve got the EN15194 certification for all e-bikes. Even after Brexit, the UK still sticks to that same standard. This sort of certification is not only for electric bikes but also for conversion kits that turn regular bikes into e-bikes.

2. Avoid Cheap Chargers

Always use the right charger to juice up your battery. While it may be tempting to buy a cheap replacement online, it can easily be of the wrong specification or not be manufactured to the same quality levels as the charger sold with your bike.

3. Always Unplug

Our third tip for preventing an e-bike fire? Always unplug the charger from the plug and the e-bike after it’s finished charging.

4. Check For Damage

Check your electric bike and charge over for damage fairly frequently. This simple step could help prevent a fire before it even occurs.

5. Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold

Our fifth and final tip? Store an electric bike at a regular temperature away from direct sunlight; this prevents the battery from heating.

In short, electric bikes shouldn’t be a fire hazard if they are used and stored correctly.

Cheaper Isn’t Better

E-bikes are like any other electric gadget – they can be a fire hazard if you don’t use them properly. However, our e-bike stats show that most safety-certified electric bikes won’t catch fire if you use, charge, and store them correctly.

So, if you’re worried about dealing with an e-bike fire, your best bet is to snag a safety-certified electric bike that meets your country’s standards. And even if your mate down the road has, don’t even think about messing with the battery, charger, or system of an electric bike.

Finally? The real issue here is one we didn’t want to leave without mentioning. The rules and control of electric bike sales, especially in the UK, haven’t kept up with their popularity. This has let some sketchy companies sell dangerous products to unsuspecting customers. So have your wits about you and be careful out there when you’re buying an e-bike.

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It’s not our job to ham up riding at night, but there are a few precautions that you can take to make cycling in the dark safer and ultimately more enjoyable.

It’s not all lights, lights, lights, and more lights, either. Okay, some of our tips mention lights, but the last one certainly doesn’t.

Choose the Right Sort of Lights When Cycling at Night

If you plan to ride a bike at night, just plumping for any old set of bike lights is not the answer. A bicycle light can mean the difference between life and death in the dark, so there’s no point in buying the first pair of lights you come across on an internet search, even if it saves you a few bucks.

Buying the right sort of lights is a “horses for courses” scenario. If you’re riding on unlit roads, then you’re going to need to buy some more powerful lights – especially the front.

Conversely, if you cycle in more built-up areas, those routes will likely have streetlights. This means that you won’t need to buy more powerful and therefore more expensive lights.

These days, most bike lights have multiple settings, from various brightness levels to different flashing options.

In our opinion, a set of lights with multiple flashing settings is more important in towns and cities, where multiple light sources are usually flashing here, there, and everywhere.

Think of it like this. Bike lights are either ‘to see’ or ‘to be seen’.

Have a Set of Backup Lights When Cycling at Night

Trust us on this one; we’ve been caught out before. Either having two sets of lights on your bike or even just a spare set in your rucksack or pannier bag, is a very, very sensible idea. It’s easy to forget to charge a set of bike lights, leaving you high and dry.

Sometimes, they fail you for no good reason at all. Ultimately, having a backup set of lights could be a life-saving tip for cycling at night.

Position Your Lights Correctly When Cycling at Night

Now that we’ve got the proper set of lights and a spare set should the worst happen, it’s time to make sure they’re fitted correctly.

What we mean by this is ensuring they are placed in a position that enables them to perform. Get the angle right so it shines in the correct direction. Mount the bike lights securely to ensure they don’t swing around.

Get Creative with Lights When Cycling at Night

Now, here’s a fun one. Getting creative with extra bike lights can aid bikers’ visibility when riding at night. Add extra lights to your bags, bike wheels, or even clip them to your body! These extra touches of light are designed to grab the attention of other riders as you ride along, so don’t consider them the sort of light ‘to see’ with.

While some people think adding extra novelty lights to your bike is, at best, unnecessary and, at worse, victim blaming, we think it is a handy tip.

Our favorite type of extra bike light is the helmet bike light. Some options have a forward-facing white light and a rearward-facing red light – two lights in one.

The real benefit of a helmet bike light is that it shines wherever your head is looking – great for busy intersections, when starting and stopping, as well as attracting the attention of pedestrians and other road users.

Reflective and Fluorescent is the Winning Recipe for Cycling at Night

With the lights out of the way, it’s time to look at the other element of visibility when riding at night – making yourself stand out. The recipe we like to use when riding at night is a combination of reflectivity and fluorescent items.

When riding just as it is going dark, fluro items, that’s, those that are brightly colored (usually bright yellow or orange), are great – it helps you be seen a mile off. But as street and car lights start to take effect, it’s the reflectivity on clothing that helps you be seen. These days there are loads of clothing choices out there, plenty that combine both fluro and reflectivity. There are even some more innovative options that, when in daylight, look like perfectly regular clothing.

Look Other Road Users in the Eye

As your confidence in riding a bike at night increases, your senses become attuned to dangerous situations. That driver that perhaps hasn’t seen you coming, that driver that really shouldn’t be overtaking you from behind.

While there’s not much that you can do about the latter, there’s certainly something you can do about the former, but only in the case if the driver is stationary at an intersection or something similar. If it’s safe to do so and you feel confident, look directly at the driver and try to attract their attention. On more than one occasion, we’ve managed to prevent impending doom by catching the attention of a driver with a look.

Whether there’s any science in this kind of thing, we’re not sure. Perhaps it’s something deeply rooted inside us humans or something a little less prosaic; there’s no harm in giving it a go—anything really, to make cycling at night safer.

Know Your Route When Cycling at Night

This one is our last tip, but it might be the most important. Make sure you know the lighting situation on your route and be ready to switch up your usual commute or training ride to include more street lights if needed.

Also, don’t forget to adjust your position on the road. Ride a bit more towards the middle of the road than you normally would, so you’re in the driver’s line of sight, particularly if your ride involves routes in the country with hedges and trees obscuring things. Plus, this way, you can dodge potholes and obstacles better.

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By now, we all know the obvious benefits of cycling.

Improved physical health, mental clarity, and efficiency are some of the better-known advantages of cycling to work, but did you know that there are many more?

Let’s take a look at some of the more surprising and sometimes sillier benefits of biking to work every day.

1. It’s an Instant Office Icebreaker

Don’t you hate those awkward silences at work while waiting for the coffee to finish brewing?

It turns out that cycling to work is the best remedy. Forget awkward elevator small talk by showing up to the office with helmet hair and a story about narrowly missing a collision with a bus.

Cycling to work allows you to experience something that might actually be worth talking about. 

At the very least, the morning commute permits you to have something interesting happen in your life. Morning wildlife encounters with a rogue pigeon? Suddenly, you have a way to break the ice and have a conversation. 

You might finally bring something out of the ordinary to the water cooler chit-chat that won’t just make your colleagues wish you hadn’t seen them.

2. Advanced Weather Forecasting Skills

Instead of being cosied up in the car, or crammed into the underground, cycling to work allows you to experience Mother Nature in all her glory. 

One of the great upsides of this is that due to the constant change in weather, especially noticeable if you live in the UK, you’ve developed advanced meteorological skills. 

Now, you’re able to sense impending raindrops before a forecaster does. You have a sixth sense for when there might be a cloudburst, a quick shower, or even a dry spell between an otherwise miserable day.

And as a bonus, even if your weather-forecasting skills aren’t quite up to scratch, it doesn’t matter, because there’s nothing that you can do about it anyway. Since cycling makes you so exposed to the elements, you basically have to roll with the punches. 

Whilst you can argue that it’s thickening your skin, it’s really just leaving you damp and miserable. On the upside, you’re more grateful for the hot shower when you get home.

3. Increased Vitamin D Exposure

Speaking of the weather, it’s worth celebrating those rare, intermittent moments when the sun is out, but the heat isn’t scolding. 

Since most of the daylight hours are spent at your desk, with a window if you’re lucky, the ride to and from work is the only chance to get some of that precious Vitamin D you desperately need.

Adequate Vitamin D levels are great for bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. But that’s not all the sun does for us cyclists’. It also gives us a fantastic, uneven tan on our arms and legs, ridiculing us. But what’s life without some humor?

On the plus side, our distinctive tan is a sign of our dedication, a secret handshake to let other cyclists know that we’re one of them. Wear that badge of honor with pride.

4. Becoming a Bike Zen Master

There’s nothing quite like the ride to work when it comes to mindfulness. The sensation of the pedals under your feet, the gentle grip of the bars under your hands, the tarmac below your wheels. It really makes you feel grateful and present.

That is until the first of the many obstacles of the day comes suddenly into view. A pothole on a poorly maintained road suddenly jerks you into focus. But rather than seeing these as hurdles, you’ve begun to appreciate them for what they are, challenges and opportunities to hone your agility and awareness.

And the rest of the chaos is something you’ve begun to embrace. The pedestrians aimlessly drifting through the bike lanes, the honking, the bustling traffic, it’s all part of your journey to becoming a zen master. 

Finding serenity amongst the commotion and enjoying the vibrant tapestry of urban life are the things you can claim to enjoy, even if, in reality, they’re driving you around the bend.

5. Great Financial Savings

With the cost of running a car these days, and even the price of public transport, cycling to work can be a great way to save your precious, hard-earned cash.

The humble bicycle, a two-wheeled marvel of engineering. You can usually pick one up second-hand for a decent price, especially if you’re looking for one without the modern thrills.

But why settle for the frugality? After all, with all that money you’re saving on parking and fuel, you might as well invest in something at the premium end. Sure, why not a high-end carbon frame, it’ll be easier to carry into the office, you tell yourself.

And, of course, we can’t forget the gear. Spandex shorts, a nice jersey, heck, why not get a GPS tracker in case your bike gets stolen?

After the dust settles, you’ve probably spent as much on your bike as you would on a car. But no one else needs to know that.

6. Bragging Rights

Of course, the best benefit of cycling to work is that you get to tell everyone about it.

Not only will everyone be impressed with your new, leaner physique, but all your colleagues will really love how compassionate you are.

After all, you didn’t take the easy way out by driving, you chose to soldier on like the courageous person you are. It’s your dedication to becoming a greener, more responsible individual that’s given you these bragging rights.

But why stop there? In fact, for all the work you’re doing outside of the office, you should be getting a promotion. You’re a role model employee, after all.

If only others were as selfless as you, the noble cycling commuter, the world would surely be a better place. 

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